ASICS' Run for Reforestation Challenge 2026: A Global Movement for Tree Planting

ASICS' Run for Reforestation Challenge 2026: A Global Success

The Run for Reforestation Challenge 2026, organized by ASICS Japan, wrapped up recently with significant success. From April 1 to April 30, 2026, this global program engaged participants in activities like running and walking, directly linking their efforts to tree planting initiatives. In Japan alone, 19,119 individuals completed the challenge, a testament to the increased awareness surrounding environmental issues.

The program attracted participants from various backgrounds, ranging from regular runners to those new to exercise, culminating in an impressive total of 23,648 participants in Japan alone. Motivated by the idea that their physical activity could directly contribute to tree planting, these participants surpassed previous records, with overall global numbers indicating a growing commitment to environmental conservation.

Inspired by the founding philosophy, Anima Sana in Corpore Sano (a sound mind in a sound body), ASICS aims not only to promote physical well-being but to foster awareness about the condition of our planet. The initiative, launched globally in 2023, utilized the ASICS Runkeeper app to encourage a variety of 5km activities, such as running, walking, trail running, and even plogging (jogging while picking up litter), with the promise that each completion would fund the planting of a tree through international NGO One Tree Planted.

By the end of April 2026, participation numbers soared, with a total of 169,890 participants globally, marking an 11.5% increase from the previous year. The number of finishers also saw a rise of 10.5%, reaching 113,506. This upward trend illustrates not only increased participation but heightened awareness regarding environmental issues.

Worldwide Participation: Japan Excels

This year, the program witnessed extraordinary growth, with significant contributions from various countries, including the United States, France, Italy, and South Korea. Japan ranked second globally in terms of participant numbers, following the U.S. With a completion rate nearing 80%, this achievement underscores the active engagement of the Japanese participants, boasting a whopping 34% increase in finishers compared to last year.

Local Initiative: Coastal Plogging in Ishigaki Island

In a unique local effort, a coastal plogging event took place on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture on April 11, 2026. Participants, including para-triathletes and former national representatives, tackled a 5km course combining running and litter collection, successfully gathering approximately 40 bags of trash. Notably, each participant's completion enabled the planting of 23 trees under the program's guidelines.

This initiative not only contributed to environmental cleanup but also revealed the pressing issue of marine litter, motivating participants to express their satisfaction in contributing to Ishigaki's beautification. The event also distributed special keychains made from marine plastics, further fostering understanding about a circular economy.

Top athletes shared their experiences, emphasizing the joy of collective action and the tangible results of their efforts toward reducing waste over time. Participants articulated their gratitude for the opportunity to give back to the environment, reiterating the importance of maintaining community integrity while tackling ecological issues.

ASICS' Commitment to Sustainable Practices

ASICS maintains that their philosophy, Sound Mind, Sound Body, reaches beyond external activities and is embedded internally within the company culture. Employees engage in running and walking events, contributing to environmental and sustainability initiatives throughout their daily lives. Participating staff in the Run for Reforestation Challenge exemplify ASICS' commitment to promoting health and environmental stewardship as complementary pursuits.

Comments from ASICS employees reflect this ethos: “I felt proud that my regular running contributed to improving the planet. The event catalyzed a desire to contemplate the earth in my daily activities.” Another employee noted, “Running with my team not only benefitted the environment but also enhanced camaraderie, leading to more positivity in our work.”

Moreover, ASICS has set ambitious goals to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, advancing circular production methods. Through programs like this, ASICS inspires individuals to contemplate their environmental impact, heralding it as a crucial step toward realizing a sustainable society. Their endeavors harness the power of sports to combat climate change and enhance ecological conservation, striving for a future where human health and planetary well-being coexist harmoniously.

Perspectives from Leadership

Kazuya Kano, Head of Marketing at ASICS Japan, expressed his delight at the widespread participation across Japan, stating, “We have pursued the balance of Sound Mind, Sound Body since our inception. The health of our bodies thrives within a sustainable planet; providing experiences where running links to tree planting allows deeper engagement with environmental issues.” The remarkable turnout and completion rates in Japan signify a prevailing commitment to connecting everyday sports habits with social contributions, fostering a lasting impact.

Looking ahead, ASICS pledges to continue its efforts in promoting health through sports, ensuring that the sustainable future is passed on to the next generations.

About ASICS

Founded in 1949 by Kihachiro Onitsuka, ASICS aims to contribute to societal development through nurturing youth via sports. The philosophy of Anima Sana In Corpore Sano embodies the desire for people everywhere to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. ASICS' vision: “Creating a quality lifestyle through the technologies gained from sports,” drives the mission to provide products and services that enable health and happiness worldwide, catering to a market that has surpassed 80% international sales ratio. ASICS stands poised for significant growth as it looks toward its 100th anniversary.